Modelling of Nitrification at the Mogden Treatment Works

An application of a dynamic model of the activated sludge process is described within the context of real-time river basin management. The model has been calibrated and validated on independent data and then applied to investigate losses of nitrification at the Mogden Works. Monte Carlo simulation and generalised sensitivity analysis were found to be effective ways of identifying appropriate parameter values and their importance. The prediction of unmeasured states such as the autotroph population enabled the effects of alternative control actions to be better understood and the most suitable measures found.